A tragic incident unfolded in the state of Idaho as a metal aircraft hangar, still under construction, collapsed, resulting in three fatalities and leaving nine individuals injured.
The calamity occurred at Boise Airport on a Wednesday afternoon, with the three deceased individuals succumbing to their injuries at the scene. Five others were rushed to the hospital with critical injuries, creating a challenging situation for rescue crews who worked to stabilize the collapsed structure.
The hangar collapse, transpiring when more than 30 people were present at the site, prompted a rapid response from emergency teams. Boise Fire Operations Chief Aaron Hummel described the scene as chaotic, emphasizing the difficulties in determining the cause of the collapse.
Hangar Collapse at Idaho Airport (Credits: NBC Chicago)
The incident unfolded at 17:00 local time (0:00 GMT), with a crane reportedly in operation on the 39,000 sq ft structure during the tragic event.
The victims, whose identities have not been disclosed by officials, faced additional challenges during the rescue operation due to some workers being on a hoist or elevated platform when the hangar gave way. Despite the chaos, airport operations remained unaffected by the incident.
During a news conference, Chief Aaron Hummel acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “It was a very chaotic scene. I don’t know what caused it.” Investigations are ongoing to determine the factors leading to the hangar collapse.
Governor Brad Little of Idaho expressed condolences and urged people to keep the victims in their thoughts and prayers. In a statement, he emphasized, “We are also praying for the loved ones of those who died.”
The incident has not only claimed lives but has also brought attention to the critical safety measures required in construction projects, particularly in structures as large and complex as aircraft hangars.
The aftermath of the collapse serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in such endeavors and the importance of stringent safety protocols to prevent tragic outcomes.
